A man in his 70s has died from complications related to West Nile fever, the Israeli Health Ministry announced Thursday. The man developed symptoms in mid-July and was hospitalized before succumbing to the illness.

Since the beginning of the summer, Israel has confirmed 10 cases of West Nile virus infection, with three patients currently hospitalized in stable condition. Health authorities are conducting epidemiological investigations to pinpoint potential locations where individuals were exposed to infected mosquitoes.

The West Nile virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of Culex mosquitoes that have fed on infected birds. The Health Ministry, along with the Environmental Protection Ministry, reported the presence of mosquitoes carrying the virus in several locations, including Tel Aviv, Tayibe, Tira, Qalansawa, and the Lev HaSharon Regional Council area.

In response, the Environmental Protection Ministry has directed local governments to intensify prevention, surveillance, public education, and pest control efforts. Both ministries have urged the public to eliminate standing water where mosquitoes breed, use insect repellent, and notify local authorities of mosquito infestations.

While most West Nile virus infections are mild or asymptomatic, the disease can cause serious neurological complications such as encephalitis or meningitis in rare cases. Older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions face a higher risk of severe illness.

This year, Israel is experiencing its largest West Nile outbreak in recent decades, with 930 confirmed cases and 73 deaths reported so far. The Health Ministry noted that the majority of cases and fatalities have occurred among people aged 60 and older, primarily in central Israel.